An academic school painting attributed to Émile Jean Horace Vernet (1789–1863), an outstanding French battle painter and historical genre artist. The work depicts a parade of officers of the Life Guard Cuirassier Regiment in the presence of the Emperor. The composition is built around the rhythm of moving mounted figures in ceremonial uniforms, conveying the solemnity and discipline of the cavalry.
At the center of the composition are officers dressed in red uniforms with gold aiguillettes, high hussar caps richly embroidered, and ornate officer’s accoutrements, characteristic of the uniforms of the Life Guard and mounted regiments of the Imperial Army. A distinctive feature is the saddlecloth bearing the monogram “N I” under the imperial crown — a symbol of the reign of Nicholas I (1825–1855).
The character of the painterly manner, meticulous detailing of uniforms, balanced composition, and historical accuracy in the depiction of the cavalry allow with a high degree of probability to attribute the work to Émile Jean Horace Vernet. Its style, theme, and execution closely correspond to his authenticated works of the mid-1840s — a period when the artist, one of the leading representatives of European Academicism, actively produced parade scenes with cavalry and guard units, including works painted in Russia.
Signature: Lower right — Vernet, 1845.
Dimensions: Canvas 46.5 × 67 cm.
Medium: Oil.
Condition Report: Good condition with natural craquelure, signs of age, and possible restorations along the edges to preserve the canvas integrity. Minor varnish darkening. Canvas remains well-stretched, painting preserved, with a rich and vibrant palette.
Émile Jean Horace Vernet (1789–1863) was a French battle painter and master of the historical genre, representing the academic school. Born in Paris into the family of artist Carle Vernet and grandson of painter Claude-Joseph Vernet, he trained in his father’s studio and from an early age demonstrated exceptional skill in drawing and composition. Early in his career, he gained recognition for his realistic battle scenes and military portraits.
From the 1830s, Vernet served as Director of the French Academy in Rome while continuing to paint battle canvases, historical compositions, and ceremonial portraits. A special place in his oeuvre was devoted to scenes illustrating the military might and discipline of European armies, including that of Russia. Between 1842 and 1845, the artist visited Russia at the invitation of the Imperial Court. During this period, he produced a series of ceremonial compositions depicting the guard cavalry, parades, and reviews in the presence of Emperor Nicholas I, paying particular attention to the authenticity of military uniforms, bearing, and symbolism.
In Vernet’s works, academic precision is combined with emotional expressiveness. He masterfully conveyed the dynamics of mounted formations, the brilliance of uniforms, and the effect of ceremonial attributes, while simultaneously emphasizing the grandeur and solemnity of service. His paintings are held in the Louvre, Versailles, the Hermitage, the State Historical Museum, and major military history collections across Europe. The present work, dated 1845, demonstrates all the hallmarks of the master’s style from this period — clear composition, documentary accuracy, and the aestheticization of military bearing — making it a striking example of mid-19th century academic battle painting.
Good condition, with natural craquelure, signs of age, and possible restorations along the edges. Minor darkening of the varnish. The canvas is tightly stretched, the paint layer is preserved, and the color palette remains rich.
The condition report is provided for informational purposes only.
It is not comprehensive and may not reflect all defects, restorations, alterations, or adaptations, as Antiqon does not perform professional conservation-level assessments. The information is based on a qualified, yet subjective, evaluation by our specialists.Before purchasing, we recommend consultation with an independent expert.Please also consult our Terms and conditions and Glossary A-Z, which contain important information on lot characteristics and sale conditions.
